Rowland Unified Students Discover the Power of Coding

Schools Celebrate Computer Science Week & Worldwide Hour of Code

Got Code? This week students across the Rowland Unified School District, along with their families, are continuing their exploration of computer coding and programming by participating in Computer Science Week and the worldwide “Hour of Code” through December 11. “Hour of Code” is a global movement to expose students to computer science by teaching students a minimum of one hour of computer programming. The District has launched an entire website devoted to the Hour of Code -- www.RUSDcodes.com -- so that families can participate in activities at home and students can use it as a resource for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) education opportunities throughout the year. The new website features coding games and activities, organized by grade level, for students in grades K-12. There is also a section on Creative Coding that shows students how coding is integrated into music, animation, art & design, along with a variety of resources for both students and teachers, including free coding workshops, challenges, STEM contest invitations and student internships.

“Rowland Unified teachers are excited to continue to provide students innovative learning opportunities through coding/programming in their daily teaching by connecting it across the disciplines,” said Dr. Trisha Callella, Coordinator of Education Technology. “Coding is a powerful language and helps with problem solving and critical thinking skills that all students need whether or not they pursue a career in computer science.”

For the past three years, Rowland Unified has had a concentrated focus on educational technology across the District addressing 21st century learning and preparing students for college and career.

“We are committed to integrating technology into our classrooms to enhance student learning and achievement,” said Dr. Julie Mitchell, Rowland Unified Superintendent of Schools. “We have built a purposeful and meaningful learning foundation for our students, which has been possible through the dedication of our teachers to engage in professional development and a willingness to bring these experiences to our students.” In addition to an instructional shift to better serve students, the District has also deployed thousands of digital devices across the District over the past three years with plans to add thousands more in the next two years as part of their Future Ready vision.